Norwich Part 2- Where Craft Beer Lives

Norwich is big on craft, The city even has a Craft Beer Week that is on now. And the Norwich Tap House (above) is actually where craft beer lives. And where Pimm’s is sold on draught. And where draught beer is called ‘Draft’ because we are in America- right?

The barkeep (because we’re still Stateside) knew her stuff. The two customers pictured tried several beer before settling on their chosen flights. These contained none they had just tasted. She patiently guided them with sound knowledge and candid assessments of each beer.

We tried the La Petite Saison (3.9) – as understated as the name suggests – and Magic Rock’s deliciously tart Salty Kiss (4.1), a gooseberry Gose style beer. We particularly enjoyed the Tiny Rebel Stay Puft – a Marshmallow Porter (5.2), a burst of dark sweetness. I love Tiny Rebel beers (even at £5.10 a pint) and have earmarked their new Brewery Tap as a forthcoming destination.

St Andrew’s Beer House is a different beast but also very US-influenced. It brews its own beers, smokes its own meat, has the obligatory tiles and an internet search throws up the description ‘shabby chic’ which I think means quite smart.

Naturally flights are available. We tried a few of which the Grocer’s Ghost Pale Ale (4.2) was the best. The beers were a bit Brewhouse and Kitchen. Not bad but not remarkable.

Norwich also has a Brewdog- of course it does. No cask beer here though unlike a recent visit to Aberdeen – where both of their pubs had a beer on cask. I had a Dead Pony Club whilst Madame Luna spoke well of the Gin Fizz. It was a blend of juniper and sour beer flavours with the feel of a Prosecco. A refreshing drink that would induce a stroke in some Camra members but enjoyed by others.

Brewdog love generating such definite and opposing reactions. There are plenty of bars that are derivatives of their house style. Some succeed but others are more Daft Craft than Daft Punk.

We had left the GBG listed Playhouse Theatre Bar to last as it was very close to our bed and breakfast but then forgot all about it until packing up to travel north the next morning. It’s not exactly leaving you with a cliffhanger but it’s the best I can do.